Zach Schamberg highlights Pennsylvania's healthcare workforce crisis at legislative panel

A critical discussion on the ongoing healthcare workforce crisis in Pennsylvania took center stage during the Aging & Older Adult Services Health Committee Joint Meeting on May 14, 2025. Lawmakers and healthcare leaders highlighted the urgent need for reform in the state's nursing assistant certification process and staffing regulations in long-term care facilities.

One of the most pressing issues raised was the disparity in Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) training between Pennsylvania and neighboring states. A representative from Southern Fayette County emphasized the challenges faced by CNAs in Pennsylvania, questioning whether the state should adopt a more robust certification process akin to that of West Virginia. The representative pointed out that current regulations can hinder training opportunities, particularly when nursing homes face unrelated issues that lead to the suspension of CNA classes. This situation not only limits the workforce but also impacts the quality of care provided to residents.

Zach Schamberg, President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Healthcare Association, echoed these concerns, stating that Pennsylvania is grappling with a healthcare workforce crisis that disproportionately affects long-term care facilities. He noted that the state's senior population is growing rapidly, yet the demand for care is outpacing supply. Schamberg revealed alarming statistics from a recent survey indicating that 77% of providers struggle to find qualified nursing staff, with many facilities forced to limit admissions or rely on agency staff, which compromises care continuity.

The meeting underscored the need for flexibility in staffing regulations, particularly in light of unforeseen circumstances that can lead to staffing shortages. Schamberg recounted an incident where a facility was cited for not meeting staffing ratios when an LPN had to leave for a personal emergency, highlighting the need for a more compassionate approach to enforcement.

As Pennsylvania faces these significant challenges, the discussions at the meeting signal a call to action for lawmakers to consider reforms that could enhance the training and retention of healthcare workers, ultimately ensuring better care for the state's aging population. The urgency of these issues cannot be overstated, as the state's ability to provide adequate care for its seniors hangs in the balance.